Mexican Gray Wolf Population Grows, Nearing Downlisting

New Mexico wildlife officials report 11.5% increase in endangered wolf numbers.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The annual population count of Mexican gray wolves in New Mexico has revealed an 11.5% increase, from 286 in 2024 to 319 last year. This brings the recovery program one step closer to the goal of an average of 320 wolves over four years, which would support downlisting the species from endangered to a less critical status.

Why it matters

The Mexican gray wolf was listed as endangered in 1976, and a captive breeding program was initiated soon after to save the species from extinction. The growing population is a positive sign for the long-term survival of this iconic Southwestern predator.

The details

According to the New Mexico Department of Wildlife, the latest population count shows a significant increase in Mexican gray wolves, a key milestone in the ongoing recovery efforts for this endangered subspecies. Reaching an average of 320 wolves over a four-year period is the target for downlisting the species to a less critical status.

  • The 2024 population count found 286 Mexican gray wolves.
  • The 2025 population count found 319 Mexican gray wolves, an 11.5% increase.

The players

New Mexico Department of Wildlife

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting wildlife in New Mexico, including the Mexican gray wolf recovery program.

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What’s next

If the population continues to grow and reaches an average of 320 wolves over a four-year period, the Mexican gray wolf could be downlisted from its current endangered status to a less critical classification.

The takeaway

The growing population of Mexican gray wolves in New Mexico is a promising sign for the long-term recovery of this iconic Southwestern predator, which was once on the brink of extinction.